Hemovore
A hemovore is an animal that primarily feeds on the blood of other animals. This feeding strategy, known as hematophagy, has evolved independently in various species across different animal groups. Hemovores are often equipped with specialized adaptations that allow them to locate, extract, and digest blood efficiently.
Many hemovores possess sharp mouthparts or piercing organs to penetrate the skin of their hosts. Some, like mosquitoes and leeches, secrete anticoagulants to prevent blood from clotting, ensuring a steady meal. Others, such as vampire bats, use heat sensors to detect blood flow beneath the skin before making an incision.
Common hemovorous animals include mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and leeches, as well as a few vertebrates like vampire bats. Some fish, such as lampreys and candiru catfish, also exhibit hematophagy, attaching to other fish and feeding on their blood. While some hemovores are parasites that rely entirely on blood, others only consume it occasionally.
Despite their sometimes eerie reputation, hemovores play an important role in ecosystems. Many serve as food sources for predators, while others, like leeches, are used in medical treatments for their anticoagulant properties. While some species can transmit diseases, others coexist with their hosts without causing significant harm.
No animals found for this category.